WhatsApp ends free Google Drive, tips for managing your files

In a move set to impact millions of Android users, WhatsApp, a social media platform under Meta's umbrella, has announced the cessation of free Google Drive storage previously provided for storing chat history, images, and videos.

The alteration signifies a shift wherein WhatsApp data stored on Google Drive will soon contribute to the 15GB storage limit, prompting users to consider opting for a Google One subscription or managing their data more judiciously.

Google's November announcement served as a forewarning, stating, "WhatsApp backups on Android will soon start counting toward your Google Account cloud storage limit, similar to other mobile platforms." These changes are slated to initiate for WhatsApp Beta users in December 2023, progressively extending to all Android WhatsApp users early next year.

WhatsApp confirmed the rollout for all Android users in 2024, intending to notify them 30 days in advance via a banner in WhatsApp Settings > Chats > Chat backup.

Recent updates to the WhatsApp Beta app display a message indicating, "Backups will start using your Google storage in the next few months."

Navigating this shift without subscribing to Google One presents options for users. While subscribing is an apparent solution for those exceeding the 15GB limit, WhatsApp offers an alternative—users can transfer files between Android devices.

Utilizing the WhatsApp chat transfer feature enables users to bypass storing their chats on their Google account, especially when transitioning to a new Android device.

Crucially, these alterations exclusively affect Android users, as WhatsApp doesn't provide free storage for iOS. Furthermore, Apple's non-paying users receive only 5GB of free storage, a notable difference from Google's 15GB offering.